Maryland House And Senate Pass Bills Regarding Sprinker Systems

The Maryland House and Senate this week each passed bills that would effectively mandate sprinkler systems for new single-family homes. Supported by Lower Shore Senator Jim Mathias, the measure specifically prohibits local jurisdictions from making their own laws to weaken fire and life safety provisions of state building codes. Maryland Building Performance Standards require sprinklers be installed in new single-family and two-family properties. The measure could be sent to the governor for his signature, if the House and Senate versions of the bills are reconciled in conference committees. The issue was subject to several public hearings in Allegany County with mixed reactions…